Quick answer
Thermal inkjet uses replaceable cartridges and can provide high-resolution coding at a short controlled throw distance. Continuous inkjet circulates ink and can print onto moving, curved or variable-height packs with a larger stand-off. Select on substrate adhesion, code, environment, uptime and maintenance.
Side-by-side comparison
| Decision factor | Thermal inkjet (TIJ) | Continuous inkjet (CIJ) |
|---|---|---|
| Ink system | Replaceable cartridge with integrated printhead in many designs | Recirculating ink and solvent system |
| Print quality | High resolution with controlled distance | Robust small-character coding at speed |
| Throw distance | Normally short and tightly controlled | Generally more tolerant of stand-off variation |
| Pack shape | Best with stable flat or controlled surface | Can suit curved and variable surfaces |
| Maintenance | Cartridge and nozzle care; fewer fluid circuits | Scheduled cleaning and fluid-system maintenance |
| Environment | Assess dust, temperature and cartridge exposure | Assess ventilation, solvent and washdown conditions |
| Start/stop | Simple start can suit intermittent use | Designed for production use but shutdown procedure matters |
| Main trial risk | Adhesion and distance on non-porous surfaces | Ink adhesion, solvent management and print distortion |
Decision checks
- Substrate and required adhesion
- Code height, lines and resolution
- Printhead-to-pack distance variation
- Line speed and encoder need
- Operating hours and start-stop pattern
- Environment, ventilation and cleaning
- Consumable cost and maintenance competence
How to prove the choice
Print the longest code on each substrate at minimum and maximum speed. Test adhesion after cooling, condensation, abrasion, chemicals and storage conditions relevant to the pack.
Relevant specialist route
View the solutioninkjetcoder.co.ukInkjet Coders
Industrial inkjet coding routes for dates, batches and variable data.
Selection note: Do not select from a comparison table alone. Test representative product and packaging against a written acceptance plan.